Generation Z is reshaping expectations.
Every generation is looking for different benefits from their workplace. Generation Z is reshaping what is expected from their workplace and peers while rethinking what would benefit their careers. Organizations need to listen to what attracts Generation Z in order to retain this emerging workforce.
As one of the Gen Z team members at Pollinate, I’ve been tasked with collecting some information about what engages my generation in terms of work. To backup my research, I launched a LinkedIn Poll to gather thoughts from my peers on what they find to be the most engaging factors they look for in a workplace. Below are the results!
Engaging Factors for Gen Z:
- Work-Life Balance and Flexibility: Gen Z places high value on flexible working arrangements which allow for work-life balance. We prioritize our health and well-being over our work, seeking environments that support these values. More than 50% of my peers (56% to be exact) noted this as the top engaging factor they look for in a workplace.
- Positive Workplace Culture: A respectful, inclusive, and diverse workplace culture is essential for Gen Z. We are drawn to employers who promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in their strategy. This factor came in second with 22% of my peers stating this as a top engaging factor.
- Purposeful Work: It feels good to make a difference. Increasingly, Gen Z looks for roles that offer a sense of purpose and that we are making a difference in the world around us. We are motivated by opportunities to contribute to social good and prefer employers who are committed to creating a difference in broader society. Not far behind Positive Workplace Culture, 17% of my peers noted Purposeful Work as a top engaging factor.
- Mentoring/Coaching: Having a Mentor can drastically influence the trajectory of your career. Gen Z actively seeks mentorship and coaching opportunities in order to support our careers and develop both personal and professional skills. We value structured mentoring programs that are interactive, supportive, and tailored to our individual growth goals. A workplace that facilitates mentoring relationships fosters stronger engagement in all generations. 6% of my peers noted this as a top engaging factor though comments indicated continuous learning as another factor not in the poll which can be achieved for all generations through mentoring.
To sum up, Gen Z is redefining what it means to engage with a workplace. We are looking for environments that not only allow us to thrive professionally, but also support our personal well-being, growth, and values. Work-life balance, inclusive cultures, purposeful roles, and mentorship are just a few of the key factors that keep us motivated and committed.
For organizations to successfully attract and retain this generation, it’s essential to listen, adapt, and create a space where we can truly excel. By fostering these supportive elements, companies can build a more engaged, loyal, and driven workforce that will shape the future of work for years to come.
Renate Wiebe is a Program and Project Manager for Pollinate Networks. Her role is to aid the team and clients in the successful implementation of services. They are dedicated to ensuring all projects are completed with the highest quality to provide exceptional outcomes. Renate achieved their Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification in 2024.
Want to read more on the Gen Z workforce and what they need to feel engaged?
- How Employers Can Meet The Needs Of Gen-Z Workers (Forbes)
- How to Lead Gen Z in This New Era of Modern Work (Wall Street Journal)
- Half of Gen Z workers think ChatGPT gives better career advice than their manager, survey says (Business Insider)
- Why Workplace Culture Matters (Harvard Division of Continuing Education)
- 6 Ways To Engage Gen Z And Millennials On Your Team (Forbes)
- Generation Z Within the Workforce and in the Workplace: A Bibliometric Analysis (National Library of Medicine)
